Our Kailua!

Kailua is one of Oahu's only small towns. It's name means "two seas" or "two currents," after the currents that run through Kailua Bay. Kailua Beach and its neighboring Lanikai Beach are two of the loveliest beaches on the islands, and both have been named among the Top Ten Beaches in the world by the famous "Dr. Beach" (and others, too). Kailua is known as a great wind-surfing and parasailing destination, with steady tradewinds that prevail throughout the better part of the year.

Alongside the beautiful beach there are at least two public beach parks, with tables for picnicking and public facilities for changing. From the beach, you can see "flat island" -- home to annual fireworks on the 4th of July, and also the twin islands called the Mokoluas. Kailua town itself has changed a great deal in the recent past, with many improvements to its public spaces by the "town landlord" Kaneohe Ranch. Buildings have been given facelifts,new businesses have come to town (more are expected) and the median down the middle of the main street is tree lined and shaded. Fortunately, the unwritten (or perhaps it is written) rule of "nothing taller than the coconut trees" prevails and so -- even with improvements, Kailua remains a sleepy little town.

The most significant geographic icons of the area are the bay, the mountains and Kawainui Marsh --- the largest wetland on the island of Oahu, and one of the largest in the state. Kawainui stands for "the big water" and it provides a home for many specifies of wildlife. In the past, the marsh was the center of life for residents --- they farmed, managed their fishponds and prayed to their gods here. Kawainui is now well protected, and a long winding walk through the marsh is frequented by residents and visitors walking their dogs, running along or riding their bicycles.

Among the mountains which form a crescent along the edge of the area is Mount Olomana. It towers over Kailua, with three peaks and as a challenge for the hardiest hikers. Kailua and its sister town Kaneohe are the sight of welcome relief as one drives through the Pali, Like Like or H-3 tunnels from the "city side" of O'ahu.